The information contained herein was obtained from sources we believe to be reliable, but is not guaranteed by us and may be incomplete. The opinions expressed are based on our analysis and interpretation of this information and are not to be construed as a solicitation or offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned herein. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of National Bank Financial.
The securities or investment sectors mentioned herein are not suitable for all types of investors. Please consult your investment advisor to verify whether the securities or sectors suit your investor's profile as well as to obtain complete information, including the main risk factors, regarding those securities or sectors. This document is not a research analysis produced by the Research Department of National Bank Financial.
National Bank Financial is a subsidiary of National Bank of Canada. National Bank of Canada is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX). |
Reasons to Sell?
Spring 2021, by the CIO office (NBC)
MYTH
Selling in times of heightened uncertainty can protect investments from heavy losses.
REALITY
Selling in times of heightened uncertainty is generally the best way to ensure heavy losses, as it often rhymes with selling low and missing the rebound.
More importantly, one should keep in mind that the only certainty is that there will always be uncertainty, as it is the price to pay for capital appreciation in the long run.
And - need we add - it isn't in the media's best interest to report the latest news with nuance and historical perspective; better to let fear and pessimism easily set in. However, the chart on the right should act as a reminder that letting emotions take over is a good recipe for short-term gain, but long-term pain.
(data via Refinitiv)
